Punta Cana Travel Guide: What To Know

Punta Cana is a popular tourist destination in the Dominican Republic, known for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush palm trees. It is a great choice for travellers seeking a relaxing vacation in the Caribbean sun. Here are some essential things to know before visiting Punta Cana:

- The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April, with the peak months being December to February. However, the weather is warm year-round, and you can find better deals during the off-season.

- The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

- The local currency is the Dominican peso, but US dollars are widely accepted, and you can pay for most things in dollars.

- It is recommended to book your airport transportation and excursions in advance to avoid hassle and ensure a stress-free experience.

- The tap water is not safe to drink. Be sure to drink only bottled water and use it for brushing your teeth as well.

- The town of Santo Domingo is a 2.5-hour drive from Punta Cana, so plan accordingly if you want to visit.

- It is generally safe to leave the resort, but always be aware of your surroundings and take standard safety precautions.

- There is a variety of food and drink to enjoy, including the local coffee, rum, and mamajuana, an alcoholic beverage made with rum, wine, and honey-soaked tree bark.

- Nudity is not acceptable on beaches, and it is against the law to be nude or topless in public.

- There is a range of accommodation options, from all-inclusive resorts to independent rentals.

The best time to visit is from December to February

The best time to visit Punta Cana is from December to February. In February, you can watch whales in the Samana Peninsula and enjoy Carnival celebrations. The resorts are the most crowded during these months, so it is recommended to book your trip well in advance. The weather is warm and tropical all year round, with average highs of around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can expect a warm welcome whenever you visit.

The Dominican Republic experiences the effects of the Atlantic hurricane season, which lasts from June to November, with Punta Cana sometimes affected by severe tropical storms. The rainiest months are September and October, so it is best to avoid these months if you can.

If you are looking for the best time to visit in terms of price, May, June, November, and December (up until Christmas) are the best months. The offseason sees room rates at their lowest, and tourist numbers are also at their lowest.

Punta Cana is a great destination for a winter getaway, with its warm climate and beautiful beaches. The manufactured Caribbean getaway is perfect for those seeking sun, sea, and sand, with its golden, sugary sand and crystal-clear waters.

The national currency is the Dominican peso

The national currency in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, is the Dominican peso, often abbreviated to DOP or DP$. It is helpful to carry small bills with you, as it can be difficult to get change in the resort. You will also want to bring plenty of cash, as ATMs in Punta Cana are unreliable and charge high fees.

The Dominican peso is divided into 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, and 2000 notes, and 1, 5, 10, and 25 coins. While some establishments accept euros and US dollars, it is always better to use the local currency, especially if you decide to get away from the tourist areas. You will usually get a better rate if you pay in Dominican pesos, and some places will only accept this currency.

If you are exchanging money, avoid doing so at the airport or your resort, as they offer poor exchange rates. Instead, find a casa de cambio (money exchange house) or a bank. You will need to show your passport when exchanging money at a bank.

Credit cards are accepted at most large restaurants, bars, and grocery stores in Punta Cana, but it is always a good idea to carry some cash with you.

The tourist area has its own rules

• Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Do not wear or display any expensive jewellery, watches, or other valuables. Leave them in your hotel safe if possible.
• Try to avoid using your mobile phone on the street. If you need to use it, be discreet and keep an eye on your surroundings.
• Keep your money secure and out of sight. Avoid counting money in public or carrying large sums of cash.
• Be cautious when crossing the road. Traffic in the Dominican Republic can be chaotic, with vehicles often travelling in the wrong direction.
• Stay in well-secured and gated accommodation, such as Punta Cana Village or Los Corales. These areas offer greater safety and security.
• If possible, have your own car to get around. Public transportation can be unreliable and unsafe, with pickpockets targeting tourists.
• Always buy excursions and tours from licensed providers with valid licenses and insurance.
• Be cautious when dealing with locals, especially those trying to sell you something. Be firm and haggle to get a better price.
• Avoid isolated areas, especially at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas.
• Follow the advice and guidelines provided by your resort regarding safety and security.

By following these rules and staying vigilant, you can help ensure your safety and have a more enjoyable experience during your visit to Punta Cana.

You can't drink the tap water

When travelling to Punta Cana, it is important to remember that you cannot drink the tap water. This is because the tap water in Punta Cana does not undergo any filtration treatment, and drinking it may cause stomach problems. Even local Dominicans do not drink the tap water. Instead, opt for bottled water, which is readily available at resorts, hotels, shops, and from street vendors. It is also recommended to use bottled water when brushing your teeth, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.

When showering, be careful not to ingest the water, and avoid drinking fountain water. If you are staying at a hotel or resort that is not reputable, avoid eating fresh vegetables or raw food, such as sushi, as these may have been washed with tap water. Ask the management if they use purified water for washing vegetables and fruits, and for making ice.

It is also important to note that ice from the ice machines at resorts is generally refined and clean, so you can add it to your drinks without worry. Taking these simple precautions will help ensure that you have a healthy and enjoyable vacation in Punta Cana.

The town is far away

Punta Cana is located in the east-central Dominican Republic, about 50 miles (80 kilometres) from Santo Domingo. The nearest town is Higuey, which is a genuine Dominican town and will give you a good insight into local life. However, it is not a very big place and is not a sightseeing destination.

The next nearest city is Santo Domingo, which is a little further afield but is still within a day trip. Here, you can enjoy the local feel and experience something different from the resort area.

If you are looking for a town to visit that is close by, you may be disappointed. It is recommended that you rent a car to get around, as public transport is not very good in the area. Uber is available in the capital, but not in Punta Cana itself. Taxis are available, but they can be expensive.

If you do decide to venture out of Punta Cana, remember to take basic safety precautions. Carefully cross the road, avoid wearing expensive jewellery, and try not to use your mobile phone on the street.

Frequently asked questions